Worlds most popular combat sports

Combat sports have been popular since ancient times, and there is a wealth of choice as well as advantages and disadvantages in each form. This article focuses on the ones that are most practised at the present time.

Karate

Brought to prominence by the superb talents of mega stars such as Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan and Claude Vann Damme, karate, which has its roots in the East, is the the umbrella term which describes a number of combat disciplines. There are different elements which have to be mastered, these include: supreme strength and endurance, the handling of weapons, precision, psychological training, spirituality and art.

Judo and Sambo

These disciplines are quite similar, and the main difference is that judo originates from Japan, and Sambo from Russia, where it holds the title of the national sport. Judo’s main actions centre on groundwork and throwing the opponent. The sparring consists of: throws, chokes, locks, rolls, hold-downs and strikes; as well as elements of arts performance.

Sambo was inspired by judo, and involves sport, freestyle and combat. Unlike judo, protectors are worn on the head, legs and hands. There is more striking carried out than in judo, and there is no spiritual element. Learning either style is popular as the training is not as arduous as other combat sports.

Boxing and Kick Boxing

Boxing has always been a fun combat sport for both the components and the audience. It is defined by its striking blows and precision punches, and legends such as Joe Frazier and Mohammed Ali have attracted countless people to the sport. It has often achieved heightened success through film stars such as Robert Dinero and Mickey Rourke.

Kickboxing is the art of being able to kick and box, and participants need the stamina of a boxer, and the flexibility of a high kicker.

Wrestling

Wrestling dates back to ancient times. Wrestlers have to have an extremely strong physique and following a very enduring training regime.